Northwest Missouri and Central Missouri still in playoff hunt

Northwest Missouri State football is ranked second in the Super Regional Four rankings released Monday by the NCAA Division II Football Committee. Central Missouri, despite being upset at home is still ranked fifth.

Abilene Christian (7-0) is the new No. 1 after beating West Texas A&M (7-1) Saturday. The Buffs fell to No. 4 behind Northwest (7-1) and Pittsburg State (7-1).

Central Missouri (6-2) and Central Washington (7-1) round out the top six. Washburn (No. 10) gives the MIAA four teams in the top 10.

The top six teams in the rankings at the end of the regular season will advance to postseason play. The top two teams in the region will receive first-round byes.